NIS Fires Officer For Begging For Money
Okpravero Ufuoma, an assistant superintendent of immigration (ASI II), has been suspended by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) for soliciting money from a traveller.
The suspension was announced by NIS comptroller general Kemi Nandap in a statement by the immigration’s spokesman, Kenneth Udo, on Thursday.
According to Ms. Nandap, Ufuoma’s conduct, captured in a video circulating on social media, does not reflect the NIS values and ethics of professionalism.
She condemned the alleged misconduct, saying it undermines the ongoing reforms to enhance service standards. She assured that the officer had been indefinitely suspended pending the outcome of disciplinary procedures, in accordance with the law and Public Service Rules.
The video, titled ‘This is how immigration officers treat tourists in Nigeria,’ shows Ufuoma soliciting money from a traveller.
Ms. Nandap stated, “This disgraceful act is not a representation of our commitment to hospitality, reception, and courtesy.
“As a result, the officer in question has been indefinitely suspended pending the outcome of disciplinary procedures.”
The NIS boss reiterated the organisation’s commitment to identifying and removing corrupt elements within its ranks, in line with its zero-tolerance for corruption policy. She also assured that the NIS would continue to strive for excellence in service delivery, aligning with the federal government’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda.’
Ms. Nandap added that electronic gates (e-gates) were being installed at all international airports to facilitate smoother travel for passengers and prevent incidents involving the suspended officer.
She urged the public to report any misconduct or corruption by its officers to the appropriate authorities.
